Dawn of New Technologies

module one discussion blog post

Rick Allen’s article, Dawn of New Literacies, raises many good points. I would like to address what I feel is the most important quote of the entire article.

“Classroom technology benefits learning when the following conditions can be met: finding a good fit between technology and the curriculum; understanding the outcomes of technology integration; identifying and celebrating students' technology knowledge; addressing student access to technology in and out of school; and guiding students to ask critical questions about the use of technology and its impact.”

We are in an odd place in 2014. Finding a good fit between technology and the curriculum is still being researched, tried, and perfected. It is hard for students to be the beneficiaries of positive integration because teachers are learning the technologies as we go. The training and degree programs are just beginning. We are in the beginning curve of finding this “good fit.”

Finding ways to celebrate students’ tech knowledge should be easier than most things in regards to technology. If we can accomplish the first goal, I feel as if the celebration will be obvious. It will be published, viewable for all to see! is also a work in progress. I think this may be a challenge for a long time. There will always be a gap in haves and have nots, just as there always has been.

Unfortunately, addressing student access to technology in and out of school will continue to be the case of the “haves” and “have-nots.” Demographics will always play a role in this area.

The most challenging piece, in my opinion is guiding students to ask critical questions. Why? Because WE are the ones asking these questions right now! First, we have to decipher how to use the technology, then find a “good fit” in the curriculum. THEN, we can demand this from our students.

Our biggest challenge with technology, as teachers, is mastering the medium we use and staying up-to-date enough to have students use the technology tools effectively in and out of the classroom.